Ganesh Chaturthi Clashes: JD(S) leader and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on Thursday held the Karnataka government accountable for the clashes that erupted during a Ganesh idol immersion procession in Mandya, his home constituency. Kumaraswamy criticised the state government, describing it as "inefficient" and accusing it of "failing" to maintain law and order, which led to a tense situation in the region.
The clashes occurred in Nagamangala, where two groups confronted each other during the procession. The incident escalated as mobs targeted shops and vehicles, creating chaos in the area.
Addressing the media, Kumaraswamy urged the government not to politicise the incident. "Don't do politics with the lives of poor people. Women from both communities have spoken to the media, stating that they lived together like brothers and sisters," he said.
Kumaraswamy also criticised the state's Home Minister for downplaying the severity of the incident. "What did the Home Minister say? He called it a small incident. What kind of message are you sending with such a statement?" Kumaraswamy questioned, further demanding answers regarding the deployment of police personnel and their handling of the situation.
"Where were the police? Where was the Circle Inspector? Where was the Deputy SP? If the police had acted swiftly, such an incident would not have occurred. When we look at such incidents, it's clear that it's planned," he added.
Slamming the Congress, Kumaraswamy said that the party is appeasing one community for political benefit while he has never done appeasement politics.
Earlier, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced that an inquiry has been ordered, and the Inspector involved has been suspended. "I have asked for a detailed report, and once it is submitted, further actions will be taken. We won't spare anyone responsible for this," Parameshwara said.
He noted that the clashes could have been sparked by a change in the procession route, which was initially set by the police. "The Inspector gave a route that was later compromised, meaning they changed the route," he explained. Dismissing the opposition's call for an NIA probe, Parameshwara said, "They [BJP] keep asking for an NIA probe for every small thing. But we take this incident seriously."
Further, Kumaraswamy also questioned the police investigation, highlighting discrepancies in the FIR. "How did a police officer in the hospital know the names of those involved at 1:30 am? This is a false, sponsored program by the government. The failure of the police machinery is evident," he stated, accusing the government of misleading the public and taking action against innocent people.
He called on both communities, Hindus and Muslims, to avoid further conflict, emphasizing, "The most irresponsible statement was given by the State Home Minister, who has not visited the place yet and is taking the issue lightly."